More than 300 people attended the 5th annual Pelion Ruritan Veterans Memorial Day Service.

The veterans monument was conceived in 2014 when Jean Haggard asked Benny Collings to chair the Patriotic and Citizenship Committee.

Benny and Ron Clamp designed and created the granite memorial.

Contractors who gave their time and equipment included Kelly Green, Jesse Jeffcoat, Corey & Dwight Rish, Tony Rucker, Kevin Windham, and D&T Steel.

337 engraved pavers bear the names of those killed in action.

The service began with the “ringing of the hour” by Otto Hage, Pelion High Band Director. The colors were presented by the Pelion JROTC.

The Pelion High Chorus directed by Robert Arcovio sang the National Anthem.

The Rev. Jerry Branham, Chaplain of the Pelion Ruritan Club and pastor of the Church of the Nazarene in Pelion, gave the invocation.

Ruritan Club President Kay Collings gave a brief history of its origin.

Special mention was given to Jesse Jeffcoat, who places new pavers each May; Kelly Green who assists with memorial upkeep and Kevin Windham who installed a faucet to make cleaning the pavers easier.

Shelly Laird, owner of Pineview Florist, donated the wreath.

The SC Patriot Guard Riders were recognized for their continuing support at the flag line around the monument.

Chief Master Sgt. Retired Tim Treaster recognized the veterans in attendance.

Josh Quattlebaum, a member of the Soldiers of Faith Southern Gospel Group, sang “God Bless the USA.”

Chaplain Major Brian K. Smith spoke about the importance of observing Veterans Day.

Local Rep. Kit Spires gave a moving speech.

The Soldiers of Faith David Goldsberry, Kevin Prosser, Josh Quattlebaum, and Caleb Henderson presented patriotic music.

First Sgt. Thomas Peel, US Army Retired, the oldest living veteran in our community, Buck Tindal, Tim Treaster, and the JROTC, lowered the old flag and raised a new one.

Ed Wilkes played Amazing Grace, God Bless America, and a military medley.

After the benediction by Pastor Jerry Branham, Otto Hage played Taps.

If you would like to add a name to this monument, forms are available at the Pelion Town Hall. Forms will be collected through April 30, 2020 and placed for the next memorial service.